DR Congo has reported 35 new Mpox-related deaths, pushing the total number of deaths to 610 since the beginning of 2024.

The viral disease, which has affected nearly all of DR Congo’s 26 provinces, has now placed the country at the epicentre of a growing public health crisis, according to a report by the Ministry of Health.

ALSO READ: WHO allocates $1m to combat mpox outbreak, announces further support

In the latest epidemiological update released on Wednesday, August 28, DR Congo’s Minister of Health, Dr Roger Kamba said 1,372 new suspected Mpox cases and 206 confirmed cases were reported, bringing the cumulative number of suspected cases to 17,801.

To combat the outbreak, the Congolese government has implemented a response plan, working closely with international partners, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), Africa CDC, and the U.S. government. An initial $10 million has already been disbursed for immediate response efforts.

Congolese Prime Minister, Judith Suminwa stressed the need for an efficient and holistic response, adding that public health standards, particularly hygiene, must be strengthened across the country.

ALSO READ: Vaccine shortage impedes Africa’s mpox response, warns Dr Mihigo

Dr Kamba urged the public to follow preventive measures, including regular hand washing, disinfecting surfaces, and avoiding contact with wild animals. Despite these warnings, bush meat continues to be sold in markets, raising concerns about animal-to-human transmission.

Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, is a viral disease that can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or lifestyle. Symptoms include a rash that develops into lesions, fever, muscle aches, sore throat, headaches, and general weakness.

The Mpox strain currently circulating in the DR Congo is considered particularly deadly compared to other strains seen elsewhere in the world. However, WHO Director General Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus noted that the outbreak can be controlled with a coordinated global effort.

"The Mpox outbreaks in the DR Congo and neighbouring countries can be controlled, and can be stopped,” he said.

He outlined a plan focusing on comprehensive surveillance, prevention, preparedness, and response strategies.

The WHO has launched a global Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan (SPRP) aimed at stopping human-to-human transmission through coordinated actions at global, regional, and national levels.

The initiative was rolled out on August 26, shortly after the WHO declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern.